It is
bitterly cold outside in Erie, and we
probably have not seen the last of winter weather this year. When it is icy and
cold outside, it is best to stay indoors where it is warm. However, we cannot
always stay at home, even though winter weather makes going outside difficult
and dangerous. Below are several tips to help you stay safe and healthy until
warmer weather finally arrives in Erie.

Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy When
You Go Outdoors

Bitter winds
and cold temperatures can cause frostbite
quickly. Slips and falls on icy and slick surfaces can cause broken bones, head
injuries, and back injuries. To stay safe when you go outside remember to:

Leave early to give yourself plenty
of time so you are not rushed when getting to and from your vehicle.

Dress in warm clothing and layers.
Boots, gloves, hats, and scarfs can help protect against the cold weather.

Wipe your feet several times when
entering a building or home to remove ice, snow, and water.

Try to keep your hands out of your
pockets to improve balance.

Avoid carrying packages or other items
to improve balance.

Use handrails and walk slowly to
avoid falls.

Avoid distractions such as cell
phones when walking outside.

Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy When
You Are Driving During the Winter

Preparing
your car before driving during cold winter months can avoid accidents and
breakdowns. Even though you may have had your car serviced and checked before
winter arrived, it is a good idea to have your car serviced and checked again
during the winter months, especially during periods of bitterly cold weather.

Keep an
emergency kit in your car. Emergency kits should include:

Warm blanket

Change of clothing and shoes

Bags of salt or ice

Shovel

Ice scraper

First aid kit

Flares

Flashlight and extra batteries

Portable cell phone charger

Small tool kit

Non-perishable food and water

Jumper cables

Before
leaving home, check the road conditions to determine if your route is safe.
Drive slowly and leave additional distance between you and the vehicle in front
of you. Review winter
driving tips from PennDOT to stay safe when driving during winter
months.

Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy When
You Are At Home

Erie
residents know they need to prepare their homes for winter. Many homeowners and
business owners install additional insulation and weather stripping, clean gutters,
insulate water lines, and schedule maintenance for heating systems and
fireplaces before fall arrives.

Some other
tips that can keep you safe at home during the winter include:

Keep extra shovels and salt on hand, so you don’t need to run to the store for these
items each time winter weather is in the forecast.

Have a backup heating system in case
the power goes out. If you use portable
heaters, make sure that you follow all manufacturer’s instructions and take safety
precautions to avoid fires and other injuries. Injuries and deaths
from portable heaters are common during winter months.

Check to make sure carbon monoxide
detectors and smoke detectors are working. You may want to install additional
detectors depending on the size of your home.

Check your emergency kit and replace
any items that are out of date. Keep plenty of non-perishable food and water on
hand. Also, don’t forget animal food and baby food & formula.

Help for Individuals Injured in an
Accident

If you are injured in a winter driving accident, slip
and fall accident, or other personal injury accident, our Erie personal injury
attorneys can help you file a claim seeking compensation from the party
responsible for your injury.

To schedule a
free legal consultation with our Erie County personal injury lawyer, contact The Travis Law
Firm by calling (800) 401-2066.

Related

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Contact our experienced local attorneys to get the aggressive legal help you need.

"I would Highly recommend Attorney Travis. He and his staff very friendly and professional. I was quite concerned over my case, Attorney Travis took the time to explain everything to me and made me feel confident he could help me.
Everything worked out great. I really appreciate his personal and professional help."

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"Highly recommend Grant Travis and his staff. The best decision I’ve ever made was to hire him to represent my case. The knowledge and professionalism of Grant and his staff is top notch! You will not go wrong chosing him to represent you! Thanks again Grant!!"